PM Modi Birthday: From RSS worker to third-term prime minister – tracing his political journey and rise in BJP

Narendra Modi, India's Prime Minister, turns 76 on September 17, 2026. Born in Vadnagar, Gujarat, Modi developed an interest in reading and debates during his early years, often working at a local tea stall. A 2013 report cites his childhood as a time when he balanced studies with work.

Modi's political journey began with his association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and later the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014. In 2014, he led the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections and became the Prime Minister of India, the first born after India's Independence. His first government launched several initiatives, including Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and Make in India.

Modi has held the position of Prime Minister for over 12 years, surpassing the previous record held by Jawaharlal Nehru. He has also expanded India's international role, engaging with multilateral groupings and the Global South. One of his significant international initiatives was the proposal for an International Day of Yoga, which received support from 177 countries.

Vadnagar, his birthplace, continues to be a significant part of Modi's life. He has referred to it as a center of Buddhist learning and tradition, highlighting its educational heritage. As he celebrates his 76th birthday, Modi's life story spans from his childhood in Gujarat, through political organisation, governing a state, and leading the country.